UVB Independent vitamin D3 production in gingival fibroblasts: A novel role of Passiflora edulis extract in oral tissue health

Title : UVB Independent vitamin D3 production in gingival fibroblasts: A novel role of Passiflora edulis extract in oral tissue health

Abstract:

Vitamin D3 deficiency is a global health concern, affecting skin homeostasis, immune function, and periodontal tissue integrity. Conventional vitamin D3 synthesis depends solely on UVB radiation, limiting protection in low-light environments. This study investigates whether Passiflora edulis extract can stimulate vitamin D3 production in oral tissues in the absence of solar exposure.

Primary human gingival fibroblasts were cultured and exposed to three non-cytotoxic concentrations of Passiflora edulis extract (1.00, 3.17, and 10.01 mg/mL) for 72 hours without UVB radiation. Cell viability was assessed using MTT assay. Vitamin D3 quantification was performed using ELISA methodology. Data analysis employed ANOVA with Bonferroni post-test at 5% significance level.

Passiflora edulis extract promoted dose-dependent increases in vitamin D3 production: 40.65% (P<0.05) at 1.00 mg/mL, 68.10% (P<0.001) at 3.17 mg/mL, and 89.86% (P<0.001) at 10.01 mg/mL compared to basal control. All tested concentrations were non-cytotoxic to gingival fibroblasts.

This study demonstrates that Passiflora edulis extract enhances vitamin D3 synthesis in oral mucosa independent of UVB radiation exposure, offering a novel approach to vitamin D supplementation in oral care formulations and supporting periodontal health in photoprotection-dependent populations.

Additional Data On Cutaneous Tissue: Parallel experiments on human skin keratinocytes were conducted using molecular docking (AutoDock 4.2) to assess chlorogenic acid (extract constituent) affinity to lanosterol oxidase and vitamin D3 receptor. In silico analysis confirmed chlorogenic acid docking compatibility with target proteins. In skin keratinocytes without UVB: vitamin D3 increased 125.86–274.04-fold dose-dependently (p<0.01). With UVB exposure, extract concentrations of 3.17 and 10.01 mg/mL enhanced vitamin D3 production by 45.82% and 61.41%, respectively versus UVB control (p<0.05).

Biography:

Angelina Ivanova holds a Bachelor's in Biotechnology and an MSc in Medical Chemistry. With extensive experience in biochemistry, cosmetic chemistry, and R&D management, she has led the development of multiple commercial product lines spanning skincare, oral care, hair care, and dietary supplements. She is a member of the Royal Society of Cosmetic Scientists and the American Chemical Society. Angelina Ivanova has authored 3 patents with 12 additional applications filed, implemented 6 technologies in market products, and participated as a speaker and session chair at international conferences.